UCSB’s has a world-famous spot: Campus Point

Campus point, otherwise known as Goleta point, is a small peninsula on the central coast of Northern Santa Barbara that is famous for the aesthetics that represent the ideals of UCSB, the study of nature and breathtaking views and vistas. 

Campus point was originally a whaling settlement from 1870-1890 by the Italian and Portuguese, and brought them a lot of success due to the clear waves during low tide. Campus Point turned into a Marine Corps Air Station after being purchased from the whalers. This point was a very strategic outpost in World War 2, as the Marines built revetments and P-40 interceptors to provide a place for the Marines in the Pacific Theatre. Then, during the planned invasion of Japan, the trainees trained at Campus Point. At its peak, Campus Point housed nearly 500 officers, about 3,100 enlisted men, and 440 women Marines. 

Although it has a rich history, the citizens of Santa Barbara wanted a peaceful town free from military bases, and Campus Point was sold to the University of California system. 
When it was sold to the University of California System, the staff decided not to build buildings because it would ruin aesthetics of the nature with a concrete jungle introduced. Campus Point turned into a Marine Conservation Area, and many naval and marine research labs operate due to the access to the sea that is usually unreachable from many other places. 

Other than the nature, Campus Point is also a place frequented by students, who love visiting the place in between classes or at midnight, where the tradition is to jump in the cold water their senior year to treasure the memories of their college times. 

Campus Point also has the best surfing breaks, and during high tide, a peak opens up. During low and medium tides, the tides do not bounce back from the reefs, and are dangerous for surfing.
I personally have made many memories at Campus Point, whether it was photo shoots at 1 am with Vikram, or stargazing with girlfriends at 2 am. Many other students also make their fondest memories at Campus Point, whether it be with friends, loved ones, or family. We hope during your time at Santa Barbara, you get a chance to visit the renowned Campus Point and hopefully make memories with someone that you care about!